News Summary
Arizona has strengthened its connections with the global semiconductor sector through a business delegation visit to Taiwan and Japan. Led by the Arizona Commerce Authority, the trip aimed to foster ties with semiconductor organizations, promote trade, and showcase Arizona’s advancements in manufacturing. Highlights included a visit to TSMC’s flagship facility in Taiwan, discussions on investment opportunities, and the establishment of a new trade office in Tokyo. These efforts are expected to bolster Arizona’s position as a leader in the semiconductor industry.
Arizona has intensified its connections with the global semiconductor industry through a recent business delegation visit to Taiwan and Japan. Led by the Arizona Commerce Authority, the trip aimed to deepen ties with leading semiconductor organizations and expand trade prospects.
The delegation’s itinerary spotlighted Arizona’s burgeoning role in advanced manufacturing and international commerce, showcasing the state’s commitment to becoming a central hub in the semiconductor sector. Key highlights included a visit to TSMC’s Fab 15, the company’s flagship manufacturing facility situated in the Central Taiwan Science Park. This site includes a specialized training center that focuses on developing the skilled workforce necessary for the semiconductor industry, a vital aspect of Arizona’s workforce expansion strategy.
During their visit, Arizona delegates engaged in discussions with Taiwan’s industry leaders at a series of receptions aimed at exploring investment opportunities, workforce partnerships, and potential collaborations within the technology sector. A particularly notable event was a reception organized by the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), which has played a pivotal role in strengthening U.S.-Taiwan economic and cultural relationships since 1979.
The delegation’s agenda also included participation in the SEMICON Nexus Forum and the SEMICON Taiwan event, which focused on the future of semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies. The theme of this year’s SEMICON Taiwan was “Leading with collaboration. Innovating with the world,” emphasizing the importance of global partnerships in the semiconductor industry.
Arizona is set to strengthen its position as a leader in innovation as it prepares to host the esteemed SEMICON West event for the first time next month in Phoenix. This high-profile gathering is expected to bolster Arizona’s reputation in the semiconductor space, facilitating further industry growth. The president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry expressed that hosting SEMICON West holds great significance for Arizona’s economic future.
An additional highlight of the delegation’s trip was the participation in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with China Airlines and Starlux Airlines to inaugurate new nonstop flight services between Taipei and Phoenix. The introduction of these direct flight connections is anticipated to enhance Arizona’s ties with Asia, fostering greater business interactions and investment opportunities.
The significance of the partnership with Taiwan cannot be overstated, as it presents a crucial avenue for Arizona’s economic future, supporting long-term relationships and the attraction of new investments to the state.
Following their time in Taiwan, the Arizona delegation traveled to Japan, where they met with industry leaders and government officials. This included engagements with representatives from the Semiconductor Equipment Association of Japan (SEAJ) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). In a move to enhance collaboration within high-tech sectors, the Arizona Commerce Authority inaugurated a new trade and investment office in Tokyo.
Arizona’s Governor highlighted the opening of the Tokyo office as a significant opportunity for expanding growth for local businesses. The mutual economic interests are reflected in the trade relationship between Arizona and Japan, reported at nearly $4 billion in 2024. Furthermore, several prominent companies such as Fujifilm, Toyota Motors North America, JX Advanced Metals, and Komatsu have substantial operations in both Arizona and Japan, illustrating the strong interconnectedness between the two regions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Chamber Business News
- Wikipedia: Semiconductor Industry
- KTAR News
- Google Search: Taiwan semiconductor manufacturing
- Benzinga
- Google Scholar: Semiconductor Industry
- NBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Semiconductor
- Axios
- Google News: TSMC Phoenix
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
